On August 12, 1948, a Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer (registration 59776) operated by United States Navy - USN was involved in an aviation accident near Rota Island, Northern Mariana Islands during landing or approach. 12 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck a cliff because it was flown too low during the final approach in poor weather conditions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A military transport aircraft struck a cliff during a short flight from Agana NAS to Rota Island in poor weather, resulting in the deaths of all twelve crew members on board.
What happened
The incident occurred while the crew was conducting a short-range mission between Agana NAS and Rota Island. During the final approach phase to runway 27, the aircraft encountered adverse meteorological conditions. The flight path was significantly lower than required for safe clearance, causing the airframe to collide with a cliff face situated approximately two miles from the runway threshold. This impact resulted in the immediate loss of all personnel on board, with 12 fatalities recorded.
Findings
The accident report highlights that the aircraft was too low during the final approach segment. The combination of poor visibility and insufficient altitude clearance relative to the terrain led directly to the controlled flight into terrain event.
Probable cause
The aircraft struck a cliff because it was flown too low during the final approach in poor weather conditions.
What happened in the 12 Aug 1948 Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer accident near Rota Island, Northern Mariana Islands?
A military transport aircraft struck a cliff during a short flight from Agana NAS to Rota Island in poor weather, resulting in the deaths of all twelve crew members on board.
Were there any fatalities in the 12 Aug 1948 Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 12 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Aug 1948 involved a Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer, registration 59776, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Rota Island, Northern Mariana Islands.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft struck a cliff because it was flown too low during the final approach in poor weather conditions.
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